Purple Rain
July 2009
By Melissa Colgan
When Prince’s first rock movie came out, exactly 25 years ago this month, it wasn’t just his chart-topping singles that led the movie to rack up nearly $70 million at the box office. It was also the confidence that Prince, Apollonia, Morris Day, and the rest of the cast had while donning an eye-catching wardrobe that was uniquely ’80s and very glam rock. From oversized rings and romantic blouses to second-skin leggings and a very Princely guitar, there’s no doubt the film’s unique aesthetic is once again influential. Here’s our modern take on Purple Rain’s baroque-rock look.
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Not Like I Love My Guitar
Perhaps one of the most unsung characters of Purple Rain was The Kid’s guitar. While Prince had his custom-made, we found a simpler version here in town. The contoured body, Tree of Life pearl inlay, and monkey grip give it all the makings of a pop superstar’s instrument. Jem7V ($2,600), by Ibanez, from American Guitar and Band, 13777 Grove Drive N., Maple Grove, 763-424-4888, americanguitarandband.com
Photo by Michael Hendrickson
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U Got the Look
This purple shift is perfect for a late summer night on the town (especially when worn with an equally fabulous pair of kicks), and it will also transition into fall when paired with opaque tights. Shift dress with knit hem and sequin belt ($1,820), by Missoni, from Nordstrom, Mall of America, 952-883-2121, nordstrom.com
Photo by Michael Hendrickson
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Lolita
With a hint of subtle shine, this petite minaudière will polish off any look with a little metallic glamour. Minaudière ($120), by La Regale, from il Vostro Boutique, 5045 France Ave. S., Mpls., 612-920-3167, ilvostroboutique.com
Photo by Michael Hendrickson
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Uptown
A crisp white blouse is a mainstay in every wardrobe. This one’s slippery ivory silk fabric, romantic ruffle front, and slight taper at the waist make it a dressed-up version of a workday staple. Blouse ($185), by Jenny Han, also from il Vostro Boutique
Photo by Michael Hendrickson
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Pop Life
Form fitting yet oddly slimming, these shiny black leggings are a fun way to accent a billowy blouse. But if you’re not a rock star, sport them under a dress to add a layer of interest and texture that tights cannot. Leggings ($42), from American Apparel, 1433 W. Lake St., Mpls., 612-825-3000; Mall of America, 952-814-1100, americanapparel.net
Photo by Michael Hendrickson
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Glam Slam
Full-on purple regalia not for you? Get a hint of the trend with a few swipes of purple polish. Call Me Irresponsible crème nail lacquer ($15), by Lippman Collection, from Ampersand, 952-920-2118, ampersandshops.com
Photo by Michael Hendrickson
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Diamonds & Pearls
These rings’ outrageous size and brightly colored stones are on point with fashion’s continuing affection for oversized accessories. Multistone ring ($108) and snake ring ($78), both from StyledLife, Galleria, 952-928-8888, styledlife.com
Photo by Michael Hendrickson
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Paisley Park
It’s rumored that Morris Day and The Time bought much of their clothing for the film at Tatters in Minneapolis. It might look a little pretentious to walk around in perfectly shined tuxedo shoes these days. But you can still get Day’s cool-cat style by jazzing up your wardrobe with a fabulous tie. Vintage paisley-print tie ($56), by Christian Dior, and striped purple tie ($115), by Versace, both from StyledLife
Photo by Michael Hendrickson
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